The rise in mortality in recent years in Poland

An analysis of the increase in mortality that has occurred in Poland since the 1970s is presented. The author notes that although some of this increase is due to changes in the age structure of the population the increase is still a real one and is particularly significant among males of working age. Changes in causes of death over time are described. Possible causes of the increase in mortality are reviewed including the deterioration of the environment inadequacies of the health system poor nutrition increased tobacco and alcohol consumption poor working conditions difficulties affecting daily life and other social pathologies.